Frequently Asked Questions

Run For Your Life has a lot to offer and realize you may have questions. If you don’t find what you are looking for below send us a quick note and we will find the answers to your question!

Store Questions

30 Day Shoe Exchange Policy

At Run For Your Life, our Fit Specialist strive to provide 100% satisfaction when you shop at one of our 3 locally owned locations. We pride ourselves on giving the utmost attention to detail with each customer walking, or running, through our door. We realize that there may be a time when a customer is not completely satisfied with a shoe purchase; if this happens we’ve got you covered with a 30 day exchange policy.

If you are not satisfied with your shoe purchase for any reason, you have up to 30 days from the date of purchase to exchange your shoe for another shoe of your choice. A store credit may be issued for the difference in a lesser value shoe. Refunds do not apply.

14 Day Return Policy

Run For Your Life understands that purchasing a new model or brand of shoe may not work for every runner. We want each of our customers to be 100% satisfied; run happy and often and stay injury free! We allow up to 14 days for you to return your shoes, in new condition, with the original packaging, for a full refund. If the shoes have evidence of wear and tear or are not in the original packaging, we would be happy to help you under our 30-Day Exchange Policy.

Roadie Rewards

Run For Your Life rewards you for shopping local! Join the Frequent Buyer Program better known as Roadie (our mascot) Rewards and get $25.00 back for every $250 you spend at Run For Your Life keeping it local. Points not accumulated on discounted items. Rewards expire 1 year after they are earned.

Rewarding YOU is just one of the many little ways we like to thank you for spending your money where you make your money: In Your Community!

Running Questions

When should I get new shoes?

Between 300 and 500 miles or 3-9 months. Why the range? Because how quickly a shoe wears depends on you. If you land hard on your heels with each stride, for example, you're going to wear through shoes more quickly than more efficient runners. Go by feel. If after a normal run your legs feel as if the shoes aren't providing you adequate protection, they probably aren't. Give your legs a week to make sure it's really the shoes and you're not just tired. If the shoes still feel dead, replace them. We can tell you that the vast majority of runners replace their shoes too late. When you can see white midsole material poking through the outsole or when the sole under the heel looks crushed, the shoes are long past their prime.

Is training in two or three different shoe models better for you feet?

Good advice, but the up-front cost can seem pretty high. Running in more than one pair will help your biomechanics adapt ever so slightly to each shoe. These adaptations are a good thing because they help prevent overuse injuries. In addition, midsole foam requires as long as 24 hours to fully recover from a run. So if you run at night and then need to get an early workout in the next morning, a different pair will give your body more protection.

Does the surface you run on affect how your shoes break down?

Road running will make your shoes wear faster than trail running, but the way you run is an even bigger factor. A heavy heel-striker who runs exclusively on trails will most likely wear out his shoes well before a biomechanically efficient road runner. If you're worried that your shoes are too old, take a close look at them. If the upper appears pulled or stretched so that the foot is sliding off the midsole, or the grooves on the outsole are worn smooth, it's time for new running shoes.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue (the fascia) on the underside of your foot that connects to the heel. Either your current shoes aren't supportive enough or they're worn out.

Plantar fasciitis can be exacerbated by over-pronation because the fascia helps realign the foot as it moves through the gait cycle. Therefore, more stable running shoes will help relieve some of the stress on the fascia. We also recommend you do some rehabilitation. If your heel pain persists or gets worse, see a sports-medicine doctor.

Is there anything I can do with my old running shoes?

Yep! You can donate your old kicks in any of our three stores. We regularly donate shoes and apparel to various local non-profits. These typically include RunningWorks and Samaritan's Feet.

Event Questions

Can I register on the day of an event?

For the majority of our events, registration is available on the day of the race. With that said, if you would like to guarantee your shirts and medals, we highly suggest that you register as early as possible. Most races that we own or host have deadlines for the swag. Be sure to check over each individual website for specific details and arrival times.

Where can I pick up my race packet?

Race packets are typically available at one or all of our three local shops. We do our best to accommodate each and every runner depending on race day and race location. For the larger races, we'll typically add more days and more locations to make it more convenient. Be sure to check over each individual website for specific details and times.

Can I push a stroller?

We love races that include the entire family! Most of the races that we own even have a specific kid's race. Baby joggers are allowed at the majority of them, however we ask that you be conscious of the other runners around you. Be sure to check over each individual website for specific details.

Are your races dog friendly?

Just like we mentioned with strollers, we love events where the entire family can be involved. We know that includes our four legged companions sometimes as well. If you are going to be bringing your pup with you, please be sure that they are friendly with kids, adults, and other dogs. Also, please keep them on their leashes the entire time and clean up after them. Be sure to check over each individual website for specific details.